Satsangs

Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.~James Swartz

ShiningWorld Reader

I have the German version of James’ book and this morning I read the karma yoga chapter. Today I was in the same situation as last week… and of course the subtle body reacted the same way.

My jiva cannot stand bad feelings and wants to get rid of them as quickly as possible. That is why this jiva is chasing objects, to stop that feeling of unfulfilled desires in the subtle body.

Rajas was first in place, with strong tamas. Sattva went to sleep, so to speak.

These strong beliefs agitate the mind and make it impossible in such a situation to be true to my self/awareness.

When I asked you for a “quick emergency plan” I wanted to know if there is a mantra that’s powerful enough to hold in my mind to keep rajas and tamas in place in those situations.

Much love, Talia

Daniel: No mantra – regardless of how “powerful” – will resolve your vasanas. Let karma yoga be your mantra; meditate on what it means to act in the karma yoga spirit, and what it means to receive results in the karma yoga spirit. This will keep rajas and tamas in their rightful places.

Please note that the following suggestion has nothing to do with ShiningWorld or Vedanta, nor am I a psychologist, but if you suffer from serious depression or some chemical imbalance that’s causing severe mood swings (extreme rajas/extreme tamas) then it may be worthwhile seeing to this professionally. Getting assistance with this is not the kiss of death.

Talia: Dear Danielji, thanks again for your answer. And thanks for being so mindful with your words.

I will continue my ride on the Vedanta bus, but I need to remind myself to put my worldly luggage on the floor while riding on the road.

Daniel: Yes, do exactly that. You have the right to put down the luggage whilst riding on the Vedanta bus. And the cool thing is that this bus never runs out of fuel.

~ Much love, Daniel

Contacting Shining World

For years I have happily and diligently responded to communications on the topic of Self realization. Since the publication of my book, “How to Attain Enlightenment”— currently in its third printing —and the success of this website, the volume of emails has increased considerably. Unfortunately, owing to a busy schedule of teaching and writing, I am no longer able to answer all the emails I receive in a timely fashion. However, my wife, who is also a teacher, and several well-qualified teachers we have endorsed are available to answer emails on my behalf. I encourage you to send them your questions.
— James SwartzContact Us